In addition to the fresh mountain air and idyllic scenery, the European country is home to culturally sophisticated cities, quirky places, and breathtaking architecture! I’m a huge fan, and from my many trips exploring this refined and picturesque country, here are my favourite spots I’d love to share with you…
1. Vienna, Wien
My photo of Vienna – it was so atmospheric in the winter
I’m always in awe of this elegant and majestic city and I’ve visited many times now! It’s a gorgeous blend of imperial grandeur, seriously impressive architecture, leafy green spaces, a vibrant arts and music scene and cozy historic coffee houses. I was completely enchanted by its sophisticated blend of old-world elegance, infused with a generous dash of romance!
Located in the northeastern part of the country along the banks of the Danube River, it is the capital and largest city of Austria, with a population of 2 million people. Its historic city centre and I love that it’s also listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
While I was here, I soaked up the grandeur of Schönbrunn Palace and the stunning Rathaus (City Hall), the gothic beauty of St. Stephen’s Cathedral, the artistic elegance of Belvedere Palace, the buzzy charm of Naschmarkt market, the whimsical colours of Hundertwasserhaus (a creative apartment) and the mighty Hofburg Palace – once the seat of the powerful Habsburg dynasty!
Best time to visit: spring and summer (but winter for the Christmas Markets)
My favorite highlights…
Staying at the chic and trendy 4-star Jaz in the City hotel – I was completely won over the live music performances on the rooftop bar, the superb music-centric design which included a cool vinyl record player in my room and the quirky reception which also doubled as a record store!
Seeing a performance of the wonderful Wiener Symphoniker at the Golden Hall – I loved the ornate decor – especially the grand chandeliers and intricate ceiling paintings of Apollo – and the exceptional sound and acoustics!
2. Hallstatt, Upper Austria
I thought this UNESCO World Heritage Site place was an Instagrammer’s dream! This small scenic village of only 741 residents overlooking the serene waters of Hallstatt Lake is one of my favourite places in Europe! Spectacular in both summer and winter, with a magical, fairytale-like atmosphere, I found it was home to chocolate box pretty alpine wooden 16th-century houses framed by a very striking mountain backdrop!
Located in the Salzkammergut region of Upper Austria (Oberösterreich), I strolled through winding cobbled alleyways lined with quaint cafes and independent shops. I caught the funicular railway to explore the ancient Salt Mine, which features an impressive subterranean salt lake, and admired the views from the Skywalk ‘World Heritage View.’
I also visited the eerie Bone House (Beinhaus) in the local parish church, walked along the seriously dreamy lakefront, took a boat ride in a traditional wooden salt boat called a “Zille”and discovered the nearby attractions, Dachstein Ice Caves and the Five Fingers Viewing Platform – which was a very dramatic and vertigo-inducing, hand-shaped platform!
Best time to visit: both summer and winter are equally special
My highlights…
Staying at the gorgeous gem Fenix Hall Boutique Hotel – I was really charmed by the restored heritage building which dated back to the 1850, the cozy but modern boho design and the jaw-dropping mountain views from my guest room!
People-watching in the charming Market Square, and dining on the open-air terrace of Rudolfsturm overlooking the lake – both the views and the hearty and herby spinach dumplings were just divine!
3. Salzburg, Salzburg State
My photo of Salzburg – the cityscape views were magical!
This handsome gem of city is a music and culture haven! The birthplace of Mozart has an enchanting blend of baroque architecture, winding cobbled streets and a stunning alpine backdrop. I was completely won over by its sophisticated and romantic ambiance, which was also incredibly cosy and alluring!
I found it located along the Salzach River at the northern edge of the Alps in the western part of the country, near the border of Germany, this city is home to approximately 158,000 residents. Its picturesque Old Town, which is very easy-on-the eye, is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
I personally loved strolling around and visiting the exceptional art galleries, museums, boutique stores and historic cafes, exploring the jaw-dropping Hohensalzburg Fortress, visiting Mozart’s birthplace at Mozart’s Geburtshaus, and exploring through the dazzling Mirabell Gardens.
I also spent my time admiring the baroque beauty of Salzburg Cathedral, taking in the stunning views from the Kapuzinerberg Monastery, going on a Sound of Music tour, which was hours of kitsch fun and sipping freshly brewed Augustiner Märzen in the atmospheric Augustiner Bräustübl Tavern.
Staying at the pretty and unique 4-star Boutique Hotel & Villa AUERSPERG – I was enchanted by the striking design which mixed old and new, the organic, homemade buffet breakfast, the rooftop spa and the atmospheric yoga loft where I joined the group sessions each morning!
Going to a fabulous Mozart Concert accompanied with a candlelit dinner at St. Peter Stiftskulinarium – I loved how it was the oldest restaurant in the whole of central Europe and we dined on dishes based on recipes from Mozart’s time!
4. Vorarlberg State
My photo of Vorarlberg Mountain – it looked like something out of a postcard!My photo of Vorarlberg Mountains – it made stunning a summer hike!My photo of Schwarzenberg Village in Vorarlberg – it was so pretty!My photo of Bregenz is in Vorarlberg – there was a buzzy place in the summer!
This was a place where dirndls, folk music and towering mountains ruled! I was completely in awe of the seemingly endless alpine landscapes, picturesque villages, and innovative architecture and how it was perfect balance of tranquility and outdoor adventures.
Situated in the Rhine Valley and the Alps in the western part of the country, it covered an area of over 1,004 square miles. Bordered by Germany, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein, and I saw for myself that it was a popular destination for all kinds of outdoor activities including mountaineering, hiking, cycling, skiing and snowboarding.
I really enjoyed visiting the scenic city Bregenz (my photo is above) where I saw the famous Bregenz Festival on stunning Lake Constance, skiing in the Arlberg region (when I came here in the winter), hiking in the Montafon Valley during the summer, admiring innovative wooden architecture in Bezau, taking in truly breathtaking views from the Pfänderbahn Cable Car and going on a day trip to the pretty Alpine Schwarzenberg Village set high in the mountains (my photo is above too)!
Staying at the stunning 4-star Amrai Suites – I was completely charmed by the infinity pool which had stunning views of the Montafon mountains and the striking contemporary design which featured trendy wood, and Montafon stone and copper accents!
Going on a sunrise hike to the Wartherhorn Mountain, and while the 4am start was a bit brutal, the breathtaking views from the summit made it all worthwhile – the sound of cowbells along the way added a quaint touch!
5. Innsbruck, Tyrol
This very easy-on-the-eye city nestled in the heart of the Alps completely wowed me! It was home to a truly breathtaking mountain and riverside setting, with snow-capped peaks framing colourful medieval buildings, charming cobbled streets, quaint shops, and historic landmarks. I’m was captivated by its unique mix of historic elegance and outdoor adventure.
Located in the state of Tyrol in the western part of the country, its home to around 132,000 residents and I found it was a global hub for winter sports (and had hosted the Winter Olympics twice)!
On my trip, I visited the iconic Golden Roof (a three-story balcony adorned with 2,657 gilded copper tiles), explored the very impressive grand Hofburg Palace, rode the Nordkette Cable Car and which had stunning alpine views, strolled through the pretty Old Town lined with boutique shops, cute cafes, excellent restaurants and trendy bars and went skiing in the nearby Patscherkofel Mountain.
Location: Tyrol in the western part of the country
Staying at the trendy 4-star Hotel Innsbruck – I really liked its modern contemporary design, the fabulous onsite spa (especially the infrared sauna) and how I could walk to the cable car in just 5 minutes!
Dining at Oniriq Restaurant – I was in awe of its innovative seven-course tasting menu, the fact it only had seven tables and its unique carrot meringue which had a sweet, and subtly earthy flavour!
6. Tyrol State
I’m always in awe of this pure alpine paradise! It’s filled with captivating alpine landscapes infused with the sounds of yodeling and cowbells, majestic snow-capped peaks, deep valleys, and chocolate-box pretty villages. To me, it felt like a tranquil, postcard-perfect utopia!
The region, located in the western part of Austria, covers an area of 4,880 square miles. I found that it’s gorgeous destination in both summer and winter and is home to over 80 ski resorts!
When here, I skied at the world-famous St. Anton am Arlberg, explored the breathtaking Stubai Glacier, hiked through the scenic Zillertal Valley, visited the historic Innsbruck Old Town, walked across Highline179, a vertigo-inducing pedestrian suspension bridge and dined at the seriously wow-inducing Café 3440 – one of the highest coffeehouses in the country which stands at 3,440 meters above sea level!
Stepping onto the mountaintop viewing platform the Stubai Glacier, extending nine meters over the mountain, was thrilling and a bit nerve-wracking – but the feeling of being suspended in air and the breathtaking alpine views made it unforgettable!
7. Saalbach-Hinterglemm, Salzburg
My photo of my summer stay at Gartenhotel Theresia in Saalbach-Hinterglemm – it was a very unique eco-friendly retreat!
My photo of Saalbach-Hinterglemm in summer – the alpine views were just lush!
I thought this alpine resort was just so laid back, quaint and pretty! It was all about gorgeous alpine views, rolling green meadows, snowy peaks, and adorable villages that I loved how it perfectly mixed peaceful vibes with a lively mountain buzz!
I found it nestled within the Kitzbühel Alps, in the heart of the Pinzgau region, in the state of Salzburg it’s home to 2,911 residents and an influx of tourists (like me!) in the winter and also the summer.
In the summer, I stayed at the wonderful eco-retreat 4-star Gartenhotel Theresia (my photo is above), hiked the stunning Golden Gate Bridge of the Alps and Baumzipfelweg treetop trail (the highest tree-top trail in the whole of Europe), explored the breathtaking Schattberg Mountain, tackled world-class mountain biking trails, and took in the zen-like vibe of the nearby Lake Zell.
During the winter, I hit the slopes of the vast Ski Circus Saalbach-Hinterglemm-Leogang-Fieberbrunn, went tobogganing and snowshoeing, and immersed myself in the fun and lively après-ski scene!
Staying at the superb 4-star design hotel GLEMM by AvenidA Superior Hotel during the ski season – I was completely won over by the chic Insta-worthy decor, the modern onsite spa, the heated outdoor swimming pools and how it was only 400 meters from the ski lift so I could access the slopes really easily!
8. Zell am See, Salzburg
I was a big fan of this idyllic beauty spot! It was a picturesque, postcard-pretty town featuring traditional Alpine houses surrounding a sprawling, serene alpine lake, all framed by towering snow-capped mountains.
I found it nestled at the base of the Hohe Tauern mountains in the Salzburg state in the western part of the country, and it’s home to just over 10,200 residents serving as a stunning tourist hub in both summer and winter.
I absolutely loved coming here to enjoy all the outdoor activities on offer and I stay at the Insta-worthy 4-star Elements Resort Zell am See BW Signature Collection. In the winter, I went skiing and snowboarding on Schmittenhöhe, as well as ice-skating on the frozen lake.
In the summer, I hiked and cycled along the trails, took the cable car up Schmittenhöhe Mountain, went paddle-boarding on Zeller See, and explored the nearby stunning Hohe Tauern National Park – one of Europe’s largest protected areas!
Soaring through the sky on a tandem paragliding adventure after taking off from Schmittenhöhe with a very experienced instructor (who I felt safe with!) – the breathtaking views of the alpine peaks and Lake Zell below made it a very magical experience!
9. Kitzbuhel, Tyrol
This was a very pretty Alpine town which turned into a chic, upscale ski resort in the winter! I thought it was the perfect mix of storybook alpine charm, colourful medieval buildings, breathtaking mountain views and a glamorous yet cozy vibe!
I discovered it nestled in the Austrian Alps in the Tyrol region of the western part of the country and the town was home to around 8,300 residents, a number that grew dramatically during the ski season though! It’s the venue for the legendary Hahnenkamm Race, renowned as one of the world’s most prestigious downhill skiing competitions. With its 230 kilometres of ski slopes, it has earned a reputation as one of the best ski resorts globally!
In the winter, I hit the pristine slopes and take advantage of the lively après-ski scene and during the summer I hiked and biked the scenic trails of the Kitzbüheler Horn, explored the charming medieval old town with its colourful buildings and boutique shops and indulged in world-class dining which was a delicious mix of traditional Tyrolean and international cuisine.
Spending an afternoon at the contemporary Kitz Spa at the upscale Hotel Kitzhof – I loved the unique pine sauna and brine steam bath, how they used vitalized Grander water (which is known for its revitalising properties), the exclusive Susanne Kaufmann toiletries and my very relaxing Pomegranate Cream Pack Treatment!
10. Mostviertel Region
This was a wonderful orchard-filled region! I really loved the story-book scenery here – the rolling hills are dotted with blossoming orchards, traditional farmhouses, historic abbeys, well-preserved monasteries, charming villages and ancient forests.
I discovered it in Lower Austria (Niederösterreich), in the northeastern part of the country, the region stretches from the Danube River in the north to the Alpine foothills in the south. I found it was home to Europe’s largest continuous area of pear orchards, with thousands of pear trees spread across its rolling hills.
I stayed for four days at the stunning (and very Insta-worthy) 4-star Hotel Schachner and as well as soaking up the incredible views and I explored the scenic Pear Blossom Trail in the spring, and visited the historic Basilica Sonntagberg which had its own breathtaking views.
I also hiked and cycled through the wonderful Pielach Valley, and discovered the natural beauty of the Ötscher-Tormäuer Nature Park, which was home to dramatic gorges and waterfalls.
Location: Lower Austria, 100 kilometres west of Vienna
Enjoying a glass the region’s signature pear cider (called Most) and home-made sough bread at the cozy family-run Perbersdorfer Heuriger in Neuhofen an der Ybbs.
11. Alpbach, Tyrol
My photo of Alpbach – those dreamy alpine views made it feel like a real-life postcard!
This picture-perfect award-winning Alpine gem was once voted the most beautiful village in the country (in a television contest organised by Austrian Television)! I loved the traditional wooden chalets, the pretty flower displays, and the truly magical alpine setting framed by green meadows and snow-capped mountains. I also really enjoyed how it felt timeless and traditional with a cosy and serene vibe.
I found it nestled within the Kitzbühel Alps in the Tyrol region, in the western part of the country, it has an altitude of around 1,000 meters above sea level and only 2,553 residents.
I also found time to dine on traditional Austrian cuisine, relax in cozy historic inns, hik to the tranquil lake the Zireiner See, visit craft shops and glass-blowing workshops in the nearby Rattenberg Old Town (which was a 6 mile drive away), and explore the trails of the Alpbachtal Wildschönau Nature Park!
Visiting the family-run Schnapsbrennerei Moserhof traditional distillery located in the picturesque town of Zederhaus. I especially loved how they embraced sustainable practices and also their potent cherry and apricot brandies!
12. Grossglockner High Alpine Road, Salzburg and Carinthia
This is the most famous road in the country! When I took a trip down it I was in awe of how it winds through the stunning Hohe Tauern National Park with breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, lush green valleys, sprawling alpine meadows, glacial landscapes and then eventually leads to the giddy heights and panoramic vistas of Austria’s tallest mountain, the Grossglockner, and the magnificent Pasterze Glacier!
I found it located in the state of Salzburg and Carinthia, and it spanned 30 miles, with 36 hairpin bends and reached a level of 8,215 feet at its highest point, the Edelweißspitze.
I drove through mountain forests, vast ice plains, and alongside sheer cliff faces, stopped at the viewing platforms and marvelled at the breathtaking views from the Edelweißspitze, Fuscher Törl and the fascinating Kaiser-Franz-Josefs-Höhe where my jaw dropped at the stunning vistas of the Grossglockner and the Pasterze Glacier. I also stopped over in the area and hiked the scenic alpine trails to really make the most of the wonderful scenery here.
Best time to visit: the road is open from early May to early November
My personal highlights…
Staying overnight at the cosy 4-star Wanderhotel Taurerwirt – I really enjoyed staying in the traditional chalet-style Austrian lodge, the onsite spa, the pine four-poster bed in my guest room and its fine location nestled at base of the mountains!
13. Graz, Styria
This was a gorgeous city with a youthful, vibrant buzz! I was a big fan of the harmonious blend of well-preserved medieval architecture, modern design, and excellent cultural attractions all set against the picturesque backdrop of the Mur River and surrounding hills!
Located the foothills of the Styrian Alps along the Mur River, in the southeastern part of the country, it’s the second largest city in the country with just over 303,000 residents. I also saw it had a large student population – around 50,000 students spread across four university campuses, so the nightlife was buzzing!
I found lots of things to do here, including exploring the iconic Schlossberg Hill with its tall clock tower and discovering the Uhrturm which had stunning city views.
I also admired contemporary art at the futuristic Kunsthaus Graz, strolled through the UNESCO-listed Old Town filled with historic cafes and boutique shops, visited the beautiful Eggenberg Palace (I loved the pretty but noisy peacocks!), and marvelled at the Gothic beauty of Graz Cathedral.
Best time to visit: May to September (for the best weather).
My highlights…
Staying at the unique boutique 4-star Aiola Living Graz – I loved the creative contemporary design, my individually designed pet-friendly guest room (especially the quirky parrot on a stand sculpture!) and the stylish on-site interior store.
Dining at the upscale Restaurant ARTIS – I thought the intimate romantic decor, the raspberry ruffle, the chocolate custard and saffron risotto were all divine!
14. Nationalpark Gesäuse, Styria
I was in awe of how wild and untamed this place felt! When I was here, I was totally wowed by its dramatic limestone peaks, fast-flowing rivers, deep valleys, gorgeous alpine meadows, and pristine wilderness where Golden Eagles soared above and agile mountain goats navigated steep cliffs!
I found it nestled within the Northern Limestone Alps, in the Styria (Steiermark) region, it covered an area of 42 square miles and is perfect for outdoor adventurers!
I took a short break here staying in the nearby town of Admont at the seriously Insta-worthy Hotel Spirodom and I hiked the dramatic Lugauer Loop, admired the breathtaking vistas of the Hochtor massif, the highest mountain in the Ennstaler Alps, went white-water rafting (which was awesome fun!) and visited the nearby Admont Abbey which had a very interesting historic library filled with ancient books!
Hiking the scenic 5-mile Gsengscharte Round Trail, which started at Haindlkarhütte and ascended through the dramatic Gsengscharte pass, took me 4 hours to complete – but the Insta-worthy views of jagged limestone peaks and spotting a cute little Alpine marmot made it all totally worth it!
15. St. Gilgen, Salzburg
I thought this was a very romantic lakeside spot! It was a ridiculously pretty lakeside village with sparkling lake views, and dreamy mountains which made me feel like I had stepped straight into a postcard! I also loved how it was brimming with genuine Austrian tradition.
I found it located on the western shores of the pristine Lake Wolfgangsee in the Salzkammergut region of the northwestern part of the country and it was home to around 3,700 residents.
I stayed at the beautifully located 4-star Seehotel Billroth and I loved taking the scenic ride on the Zwölferhorn Cable Car (the alpine views were breathtaking!) and boating and paddle-boarding on Lake Wolfgangsee.
I also gazed at the timber chalets in the village, hiked the picturesque Plombergstein Loop, discovered the Mozarthaus St. Gilgen – a Baroque-style house that was the birthplace of Mozart’s mother – and enjoyed hearty Austrian cuisine at the cozy lakeside restaurants!
Taking the moderately challenging but well marked Ried to St. Gilgen 5.4 mile route – it took me on a magical 2.5 hour journey past the shimmering Wolfgangsee Lake and thick ancient forests filled with Silver Firs, Scots Pine and European Beech.
16. Hochosterwitz Castle, Carinthia
This was a wonderful medieval fortress and very popular attraction! I was in awe of how it sat photogenically atop a steep hill, surrounded by rolling countryside, with its fairytale-like turrets, winding pathways, and sweeping views of the Carinthian countryside. I thought it had a romantic and magical vibe that made me feel I had stepped into a medieval storybook!
I found it located in Carinthia, in southern part of the country perched very dramatically on a 172-meter (564-foot) dolomite rock and its construction first started in the 16th century around 1571.
Walking up the winding uphill path (after paying the €18 admission fee) and around this exceptionally preserved Renaissance-era building was a very memorable experience. I was impressed by how its fortified gates, towers, and walls, as well as the interiors, courtyards, and chapel, were still intact. I also browsed the museum’s historic artifacts, including interesting paintings and weapons, before I left.
Best time to visit: April to October (when visitors are allowed inside certain parts of the castle)
My highlights…
Browsing unique mementos in their gift shop – there were medieval-style pendants, postcards and interesting documentary DVDs detailing the history of the castle.
Capturing the perfect Insta-worthy shot of the majestic castle from the charming nearby village of Sankt Georgen am Längsee – this was definitely the best viewpoint!
17. Krems an der Donau, Lower Austria
This was a quaint and gorgeous historic riverside town! It felt like stepping into a postcard-perfect scene with its cobblestone streets, pretty medieval buildings, seemingly endless vineyards, the shimmering Danube River, and its traditional, tranquil ambiance.
I found it nestled along the famous Danube River, in located in Lower Austria (Niederösterreich) and is the eastern gateway to the Wachau Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site. I found it was famous for its gorgeous landscapes, vineyards, and picturesque historic towns. It’s also the oldest wine-producing towns in the whole country.
On my visit, I stayed at at the contemporary gem the 4-star Steigenberger Hotel & Spa Krems and I adored wandering the cobblestone streets and striking medieval buildings of the picturesque Old Town, discovering the impressive Steiner Tor city gate, gazing at modern art at Kunsthalle Krems, sampling award-winning wines at Winzer Krems winery, taking a scenic boat cruise, and cycling along the wonderful trails.
Location Lower Austria around 70 km west of Vienna.
Going on a scenic boat cruise through the gorgeous Wachau Valley and its popular beauty spots – the scenery was filled with sprawling vineyards, fairytale-like castles, and pretty traditional villages, and I loved spotting apricot orchards clinging to the hillsides, which the region is famously known for.
Dining on a meat-free goulash and apricot dumplings while listening to live traditional music at the cozy Salzstadl restaurant – I also loved how the smiling serving staff were dressed in traditional dirndls and lederhosen!
18. Thayatal National Park, Lower Austria
I really enjoying visiting this wild and untouched protected nature reserve! To me it feels like stepping into a peaceful wilderness oasis, with its green forests, slow-flowing rivers, spectacular river valleys, deep gorges, jagged cliffs and storybook historic castles.
It was located in Lower Austria, in the northernmost part of the country, along the Austrian-Czech border and is around 5.1 square miles in size. I loved that it was home to a large variety of flora and fauna, including rare European wildcats, otters, black storks, kingfishers, the Apollo butterfly and rare orchids.
I camped in the park (there was a site adjacent to the National Park House), explored the miles of hiking trails, visited the fairytale like Hardegg Castle perched above the valley, cycled the Thaya Valley Cycle Trail, kayaked along the Thaya River and explored pretty Hardegg, the smallest city in the entire country!
Hiking the family-friendly Einsiedlerweg trail (near Hardegg) which was an easy circular walk and took me just over two hours to finish – I loved the gorgeous views of Thaya River and the majestic Hardegg Castle, that it took me near the Czech border and the river!
Stopping by the interesting Visitor’s Centre gift shop – I loved the unique animal and botanical photo books, and the handy outdoor tools which they had for sale!
19. Dürnstein, Lower Austria
I thought this historic town riverside town was very romantic! It was like discovering a hidden gem frozen in time, with its cobbled streets lined with pretty medieval buildings, a striking blue abbey tower, gorgeous views of the Danube River and surrounding vineyards.
Located in the Wachau Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Lower Austria, I found out that it was home to just 900 residents but Dürnstein Castle is famous as being the place where King Richard the Lionheart of England was held captive in 1192!
I stayed at the historic 4-star gem Hotel Richard Löwenherz and I marvelled at the iconic blue tower of its Baroque abbey, hiked up to the famous historic Dürnstein castle, and discovered charming shops, and cozy wine taverns to while away a few hours!
Sampling wine at the family-run Weingut Bohmer winery – I loved their exceptional citrusy Sauvignon Blanc which I found was cultivated in the Frauengärten vineyard, it was seriously delicious!
Dining at the rustic-chic restaurant Küffer Keller – I loved the Mediterranean-like garden, the aroma from the large charcoal grill, the all you can eat salad bar and my dish of foraged portobello mushrooms which were grilled with locally grown herbs including thyme, marjoram, and freshly picked wild garlic.
